Panthers tender restricted free agent Byron Bell

The Panthers re-signed fullback/tight end Richie Brockel on Monday before they had to tender him as a restricted free agent, but they’ll be going the tender route with tackle Byron Bell.

Carolina announced that they were tendering Bell on Monday without noting the level of the tender, but Joseph Person of the Charlotte Observer reports that it is of the second-round variety. If Bell signs it, he’ll make $2.187 million in 2014. If another team wants to sign him away, it will cost them a second-round pick to secure Bell’s services.

Bell has made 40 starts at right tackle for the Panthers over the last three years and his performance is one of the reasons why the Panthers need to focus on upgrading the offensive line this offseason. With Jordan Gross retired, the Panthers couldn’t really afford to let him get away but it wouldn’t be a surprise if someone else was starting come the regular season.

The Panthers also tendered exclusive rights free agent Chris Scott, who made eight starts at guard last season. As with Bell, there’s uncertainty at guard in Carolina but upgrading from Scott would be a good thing for the offense.

This is Gettleman’s dumbest move so far. I know a few grade school girls that are better players than Byron Bell. Only a GM on hallucinagetic drugs is going to give up a second round pick for this stiff.

What in the hell is Gettelman doing?! He went from being our “savior” last year to being 2 seconds from being run out of town! Bell is hands down our worst OL. And don’t even get me started on this Smith business… Ridiculous